Zelensky approves new bill restoring ‘independence’ of anti-corruption bodies after protests

For three consecutive days, public outrage has spilled into the streets of Ukraine after Wadomir Zilinski signed a bill to limit the country’s two anti-corruption agencies. But under pressure, the president has reversed course and says he has approved draft legislation to reinstate their independence. Today, my bill is already submitted in parliament as I promised for justice for law enforcement and anti-corruption agencies, giving full guarantees of independence. The initial bill was first adopted on Tuesday and would have placed the two agencies under the direct control of the prosecutor general, an official appointed by the president. Zilinski claimed he was attempting to clean up Russian infiltration, but in a country with a long history of corruption, the issue is sensitive. Critics felt the initial bill was a sharp democratic backslide and concentrated power squarely in Zalinsk’s hands. Many now say they will continue to protest until the new draft legislation is actually passed. We will monitor the situation. We will make sure that this really happens and that we restore the independence of the anti-corruption agencies. This bill that the president submitted seems like everything will be fine. And in principle, we read it and saw changes for the better, but we need to keep pushing. On Thursday, the EU welcomed Zalinsk’s pledge to reinstate the independence of the two agencies after criticizing the initial bill as a step back, particularly for Ukraine’s ascension to the block.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has approved a draft bill to restore the independence of anti-corruption agencies, following nationwide protests and EU concerns over recent reforms that threatened their autonomy. The move comes after public outcry over a law placing key watchdogs under presidential influence, sparking the country’s largest demonstrations since the war with Russia began. Eliza Herbert tells us more.
#Zelensky #Ukraine #independence

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21 comments

  1. Zelensky is on a very fine line, has to be very careful with the optics he plays, not only are his every move a determinant for more international support, Ukrainians are also ready to call him to order for their sacrifices in the path to detangle from Russia.

  7. Clownsky is going against anti-corruption/law enforcement agencies just like DT. Clownsky is a fast learner; he wants to keep the gravy train coming.

  10. The US has consistently voted against the appointment of an independent auditor general for the financial aid given to Ukraine. Why?

  14. Zelensky is lying about why he signed the original legislation. Why does no one mention that one of his deputies is under investigation by the agencies he tried to kill? I've been a huge supporter of Zelensky, but now I think he and his inner circle must be investigated. It's the only way to restore trust.

  16. 1. Many people dislike Zelensky due to his poor decisions that harmed Ukraine. 2. Others are anticipating a poll to potentially remove the comedian.

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